Michael Gross was born in Denver, Colorado, to Terry and Luanne Gross on October 26, 1994. He was an immediate delight to his parents and his 2-year-old brother, Matthew. They quickly became the best of buddies while growing up, which never changed.
Throughout his 18 years living at home, Michael brought a unique goofiness to his family. He was witty, crafty, and full of mischief but also focused, bright, creative, and extremely hardworking in his studies. Michael was inquisitive, experimental, and methodical while dabbling in the numerous hobbies that he carried into adulthood. Perhaps the most noteworthy aspect of Michael was his vast empathy, concern, and thoughtfulness toward everyone he met.
Michael graduated from Lakewood High School’s International Baccalaureate program with numerous honors and awards. He also developed many deep friendships that he embraced and cherished throughout college and the rest of his life.
He later graduated from Colorado School of Mines Engineering University in 2017 with a B.S. degree in Mining Engineering and the distinction of Cum Laude.
Michael then moved to San Francisco to work at a company that provided financial software to the mining industry. After a while, he discovered that the mining industry was inconsistent with the professional values he wished to uphold.
He moved back to Colorado to be close to family and friends and spent a few years working in Breckenridge, determining what career path best suited his morals and expectations. His journey led him to PRQ Exteriors, located in Golden, Colorado. There, he quickly rose to the position of Director of Account Management, a testament to his determination and growth. He utilized his compassion and leadership to help cultivate the company’s culture and rapport among coworkers.
Some of his hobbies included coin collecting, smelting, gold panning, chess, card and board games, book club, poetry, writing, cooking, playing guitar, collecting vinyl records, golfing, disc golf, bowling, and fishing.
Though his life was short, Michael profoundly impacted those who knew him and will be missed greatly. We love you, Michael, and may you rest in peace until we meet you in heaven.
In honor of Michael, we thank everyone for wearing flannel shirts, jeans, or bright colors to the service at Christ on the Mountain Catholic Church in Lakewood, Colorado. Michael's eternal resting spot will be at Olinger Crown Hill Cemetery in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
If you wish to donate, please consider JDRF International Mountain West Chapter 3, 2727 Bryant Street, Suite 380, Denver, CO 80211 (EIN: NPP-5759261).
